Building on previous programs between ADEC and organizations across the Mubadala Group, the agreement is a significant step towards aligning education with emerging career opportunities in industries central to Abu Dhabi’s long-term economic diversification.

“After years of working together on education initiatives spanning industries including aerospace, energy, healthcare and semiconductors, Mubadala and ADEC are taking a significant step to formalize a deeper, more comprehensive strategic partnership,” said Khaldoon Al Mubarak, Group CEO and Managing Director of Mubadala Development Company. “Through this partnership, Mubadala hopes to further contribute to industry representation in academic programs, leveraging our industry knowledge to underpin development of a globally-competitive Emirati workforce here in Abu Dhabi.”

“Our industries require strong technical and engineering talent and a sustained pipeline of IP and knowhow to ensure global competitiveness and sustainability,” said Dr. Amal Al-Qubaisi, Director General of ADEC. “The proposed alliance is envisioned to build the infrastructure in curricula, laboratories, knowledge portals, experiential learning, teacher training, and applied research to produce STEM talent and knowledge at the required scale for generations to come.”

The development of industries in Abu Dhabi is significantly increasing demand for technical talent. For example, Emirates Global Aluminum employs approximately 7,000 employees, of which 85% will need technical capabilities across all levels. Similarly, aerospace, utilities, ICT and healthcare industries will require significant inflow of talent in the next five years, followed by other emerging sectors such as semiconductors and renewables.

In parallel, a strong pipeline of intellectual property and knowhow will need to develop to ensure industries are competitively positioned globally, which in turn will require world-class universities, academic and research institutions, best-in-class professors and researchers, strong IP protection laws, funding means and strong connections with the priority industries.

The partnership framework will establish a joint steering committee that will work to identify the structure and objectives of future programs, including an initial pilot program set for launch during the 2015-2016 academic year.